Be careful, considerate and cheerful

Friday

Nov 23, 2012 at 9:45 AM

The Christmas shopping season is here. It began in the wee hours of this morning or the afternoon and evening hours of Thanksgiving Day.

The Christmas shopping season is here.It began in the wee hours of this morning or the afternoon and evening hours of Thanksgiving Day.Either way, it has begun.Thousands of local shoppers kicked it off with their annual quest for the best bargains around.They waited in line, drank coffee, shared snacks and talked about what they were in line to buy.Then, the camaraderie over, they made their mad dashes into retail centers around the region, hoping to get that rock-bottom sale price or the last of the hot Christmas toys.Some people chose to avoid the shopping seen altogether. They slept in, enjoyed leftover turkey and gave thanks for a day off work to rest from their Thanksgiving holiday.Whatever you are doing today, though, chances are you will find yourself at some point in the coming weeks in the midst of a retail-shopping center with holiday gifts in hand.When you do, remember a few things. Be careful, be considerate and, when at all possible, be cheerful.While you're shopping, take it easy and take your time.Even if you're planning a trip to the store today, don't get sucked into the rush mentality.Find a parking space, make sure you lock your car and be careful going through the parking lot. Others might not be as relaxed and careful.While you're in the store, keep your buggy and your belongings with you. Don't leave pocketbooks or other things out of reach where they could be lost or stolen.Be responsible. A deal is only good if you can afford it. If a potential purchase will cause a sudden peak in your credit card balance, choose something else.While you're shopping, remember this is a joyous season.Try to keep a smile on your face and remember the love-filled reasons you are buying presents or food for a big holiday dinner. They are for the people you love and who love you.Before we know it, Christmas will be here. The big day will arrive, and our loved ones will get great presents that we have put love and time into picking out and purchasing. In the meantime, let's make the shopping season as pleasant as it can possibly be.Today is Black Friday, but that's not an appropriate name. It is the first real day of the Christmas shopping season. Get out there and enjoy it.

Editorials represent the opinions of the newspaper, not of any individual.